The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
Historic garden of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo
The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, known as Kokyo Higashi Gyoen in Japanese, are a historic part of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, Japan. You can enjoy a park with green areas, broad paths, historic sites and a small Japanese garden.
The East Gardens are situated on the grounds of the former Edo Castle, the residence of the Tokugawa shoguns during the Edo period (1603-1868). The gardens encompass a portion of the castle's remains, including defensive walls, moats, and structures. These areas contain ruins, fortifications, and remnants of the castle's structures, providing insights into Japan's feudal past.
The East Gardens offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo's urban environment. It's a place where you can enjoy tranquility, admire nature, and experience a piece of Japan's history and culture.
Entrance fee: free
PICKING TIP
The East Gardens are a true escape of the grey Tokyo into greenery, but compared to other historic landmarks or gardens within Japan it is definitely not among the top 10.
The Japanese garden area is beautiful, but very small. You will find some historic buildings which gives you an insight into Japan's Edo period, but also mostly ruins and nicely built walls from the past.
Unlike the inner grounds of the Imperial Palace, which are generally not open to the public except on certain occasions, the East Gardens are accessible to visitors. It is basically a plan B for visitors who would like to enter the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, but did not book their tickets in advance.
Should I visit it or not?
- If you do not have enough time in Tokyo and are also visiting Kyoto, we would skip it.
- If you are only in Tokyo and are interested in Japan's history, go ahead.